Fords

Thanks to the leadership of automotive pioneer Henry Ford, who made his mark on the world as the founding father of modern American industrial mass production methods, the Ford Motor Company became the world's biggest automaker in 1930. It was a time when Ford was basking in the success of the Model A, which replaced the Model T in the aftermath of the stock market crash of 1929.

Ford’s good fortune lasted for decades, culminating in its domination of the American midsize sedan market with the flagship Taurus. In the 21st century, the company faces increased competition and a delicate economic situation.

Now, the Ford F-150 pickup is the best-selling vehicle in the United States and the iconic Mustang has as loyal a following as ever. Lincoln, the firm's luxury nameplate, found its footing with the arrival of the speedy, compact crossover MKC and positive buzz surrounding a reborn Continental town car.

From the Econoline cargo van to the mainstay Ford Explorer SUV to the family-friendly Focus, Ford vehicles remain popular acquisition targets.

Quick Facts

• Ford was America's largest corporation, and at times, the world's largest enterprise, for most of the 20th century
• A 1968 Ford GT40 used by Steve McQueen as a camera car in the 1971 film “Le Mans” sold for $11 million at RM Auctions.
• In a 2014 charity auction, a one-of-a-kind 2015 F-35 Lighting II fighter jet-inspired Mustang sold for $200,000